Apr. 29, 2013

Written by

JOSEPH HARRISON

LOUISVILLE 40207 — In the aftermath of the Boston Marathon terror attack, Churchill Downs has made significant changes to its carry-in policies for Derby and Oaks. Among the many items to be barred or confiscated: coolers, umbrellas, purses larger than 12 inches in any dimension, and most cameras.

Is the move a meaningful strategy for thwarting terror strikes, or ineffectual theater? Was the long list of forbidden carry-ins crafted with genuine risk in mind, or a pre-emptive CYK (cover your keister) maneuver to deflect criticism in the long-shot chance of an actual incident?

These are debatable questions. For the moment, the issue most troubling is the certainty that many people will be surprised by the changes when they reach the gates.

These changes will create serious disruptions for anyone unprepared. Here’s an example: Consider a family group that has traveled from Japan, booked rooms at considerable expense, and taxied to the Downs. Because they are carrying an oversize purse and an expensive camera, they are faced with an impossible choice. The purse and camera will be confiscated or they can just turn around and go back to Tokyo. Churchill hasn’t said if refunds will be offered to those in this situation. They surely won’t offer compensation for the airfare and lodging costs.

In years past, bags were inspected. This is reasonable prudence — now more than ever. Adding metal detectors to the mix would offer a genuine safety upgrade. Using trained inspectors would help even more. (The bag inspections I’ve been through at Churchill have been pro forma at best.) But let’s not pretend that barring umbrellas, coolers, large purses and cameras is the magic formula for a safe race day.

Forbidding cameras actually makes the event less safe. An Associated Press article carried on the front page of The Courier-Journal three days after the Boston Marathon terror strike noted the importance of photo evidence to police work: “Law enforcement agencies pleaded for the public to come forward with photos, videos or any information that might help them solve the twin bombings near the race’s finish line.”

However diligent Churchill Downs may be in alerting patrons to the new carry-in rules, there will be many, many attendees taken by surprise. Not everyone keeps up with the news. Not everyone reads the fine print.

Those turned away at the gates are Churchill’s customers, and very likely not a one among them plans to commit a terror attack.